MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A significant restructuring of the federal government’s election cybersecurity agency is raising concerns about the security of upcoming midterm elections. Established in 2018, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has played a crucial role in alerting state and local election officials to potential threats originating from foreign governments.

The agency’s initial mission was to bolster election infrastructure security, providing technical assistance, threat assessments, and coordinating responses to cyberattacks. Since its creation, CISA has worked closely with state and local election boards, offering resources to safeguard voting systems and voter data. This collaboration has been widely regarded as a vital component of election security efforts, particularly in the face of increasing attempts by foreign actors to interfere with democratic processes.

Details of the changes and their potential impact remain unclear. However, the restructuring has prompted questions about the continuity of these vital services and the agency's ability to effectively address emerging threats. Election officials are seeking clarification on how the changes will affect their access to CISA’s expertise and support during the critical period leading up to and following the midterm elections. The agency has not yet released a comprehensive explanation of the changes or their intended effects. Concerns center on whether the reorganization will streamline operations or create disruptions that could leave election systems vulnerable.

The timing of the changes, just months before the midterm elections, has amplified anxieties among election security experts and lawmakers. They emphasize the need for a seamless transition to ensure that states and localities have the resources and support they need to protect the integrity of the electoral process. The focus remains on ensuring a secure and reliable election regardless of the agency's internal adjustments.